CLACTON Coastal Academy has been named one of the best schools in the country for pupil progress at GCSE.

The academy, in Pathfields Road, Clacton, has received national recognition for the value it adds to pupils’ achievements at GCSE.

The Specialist Schools and Academies Trust carried out its annual in-depth analysis of official Department for Education data on all state-funded schools in England.

It identified Clacton Coastal Academy’s success.

The school has qualified for the trust’s Educational Outcomes Award by being in the top 20 per cent of schools nationally for progress made by pupils between their Key Stage 2 results at primary school and their GCSE results at age 16.

Sue Williamson, chief executive of the trust said: “Clacton Coastal Academy should be congratulated for their exceptional achievement.

“They have proved themselves to be leading the field in improving GCSE outcomes for their students.

“There is so much good practice that this school could share.

‘These results are testament to the commitment and hard work of the students, teachers and leadership team at Clacton Coastal Academy, and show what can be achieved when skilled teachers have high expectations and ambition for every young person.”

Tracey Hemming, principal at Clacton Coastal Academy, said: “It is wonderful to be recognised for this achievement and is further proof of all we do here.

“We are committed to providing an excellent education for all our students and ensuring that they are given the best start for their future.

“We look forward to celebrating this success and sharing our good practice with other schools.’’